Snakeskin Wrasse
Eupetrichthys angustipes
Snakeskin Wrasse (*Eupetrichthys angustipes*) is a little-known western Pacific wrasse associated with reef and coastal habitats. It is slender and elongate, with a snakeskin-like pattern that gives the species its common name; reliable angling information is limited.
Identification points
- Slender, elongated wrasse body with a narrow caudal peduncle
- Snakeskin-like fine mottled patterning over the body
- Small terminal mouth and continuous wrasse-style dorsal fin
Habitat
Shallow coastal reefs, seagrass edges, and rubble or sand-adjacent reef flats in the western Pacific; reported from nearshore marine habitats rather than open ocean.
Bait notes
Because it is not a common target species, there are few species-specific bait records. Small pieces of shrimp, marine worm, or squid on light tackle may tempt it, along with tiny soft plastics or micro-jigs fished near reef cover.
Behavior
A small, active bottom-foraging wrasse that picks at tiny benthic invertebrates among reef structure and vegetation. Like many wrasses, it likely stays close to cover and darts quickly when disturbed.
Caution
Not a standard food species and species-specific consumption guidance is limited. As with many small reef fishes, avoid eating fish from areas with known reef-fish contamination risks unless local advisories say it is safe; check local protections before keeping any.
Fishing notes
Use very light gear and small hooks around shallow reef edges, seagrass, or rubble. Present baits close to the bottom and near cover; if encountered, handle gently because wrasses can be delicate and are easy to overmatch.